psychology

Psychology is the natural science of behavior and mental activity. A career in psychology encourages curiosity, creativity, and an emphasis on using scientific strategies to discover patterns of behavior. Psychologists study how people think, feel, and act, aiming to understand and improve mental health and well-being. This field requires strong analytical skills, empathy, and a passion for helping others.

Certificate

Psychology Focus

Provides foundational coursework for psychology majors planning to transfer to four-year institutions.

About the Program

Do you like trying to figure people out? Jackson College offers a transfer pathway for students interested in continuing their studies in psychology at a university. Our program provides an affordable, accessible, and academically rigorous start to your journey in psychology. Benefit from guided transfer guides for many local universities, ensuring a seamless experience while enjoying the affordability and small class sizes of the community college. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and a deep understanding of human behavior, preparing you for advanced studies in psychology.

General Psychology

An introduction to psychology as a scientific discipline. Topics include biological foundations, learning, memory, cognition, emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and therapy.

Infancy and Childhood

Covers the physical, cognitive, and social development of children from prenatal stages through childhood. Includes learning theories, developmental milestones, and family dynamics.

Social Psychology

Explores how individuals influence and are influenced by others. Topics include attitude formation, social perception, group dynamics, and interpersonal behavior.

Abnormal Psychology

Examines psychological disorders, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and the historical and cultural contexts of mental illness.

Career Outlook

Students who take foundational courses in the psychology at Jackson College will be well-prepared to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology. This pathway provides a strong foundation for further education and career opportunities in various fields, including clinical psychology, counseling, research, and human resources. Graduates can pursue roles as psychologists, counselors, researchers, and other positions that require a deep understanding of human behavior. The demand for psychology professionals remains strong, driven by the need for mental health services and research.

Diagnoses and treats emotional, mental, and behavioral disorders through therapy, assessments, and research.

Supports students’ academic and emotional development in educational settings, helping with learning, behavior, and career planning.

Assists mental health professionals in providing care, monitoring patient behavior, and implementing treatment plans.

Applies understanding of human behavior to support employee relations, recruitment, training, and organizational development.

Pay

Understanding potential earnings is an important part of exploring career options.

Median Pay $70,000/yr
Pay: Low End $40,000
Pay: High End $120,000

Salary estimates are based on data from America’s Career InfoNet and the Occupational Outlook Handbook. Actual earnings vary by location, industry demand, business size, education, and experience. Check local job listings for the most accurate salary information.